Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce -

There’s nothing quite like the rich, savory flavors of a classic cheesesteak sandwich, with its tender beef, melted cheese, and that irresistible blend of grilled onions and peppers. Now, what if I told you that you could take all those iconic flavors and turn them into a decadent, creamy pasta dish? Enter Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce a mashup of two beloved comfort foods that’s sure to win over anyone who takes a bite.

This recipe takes everything you love about a cheesesteak and combines it with the deliciously cheesy, pillowy goodness of tortellini. Toss in a smooth and rich provolone sauce, and you’ve got yourself a dinner that’s nothing short of spectacular. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a little bit of indulgence on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s face it there are few things as comforting as pasta drenched in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Add tender beef and sautéed peppers and onions, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. What makes this recipe extra special, though, is the combination of flavors that hit all the right notes: the sharp, creamy provolone, the savory beef, the sweetness of the peppers, and the bite of the onions. Plus, using tortellini instead of traditional pasta makes every bite feel like a little luxury.

It’s quick, easy, and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The rich provolone sauce is perfectly balanced creamy and smooth but with enough depth to complement the meat and veggies. If you love cheesesteaks and you love pasta, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Ingredients and Preparation Tips

This Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce recipe isn’t just delicious it’s also super simple to make. You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients to pull it off, and everything comes together quickly. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or ribeye steak (thinly sliced)
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
1 medium onion (thinly sliced)
1 bell pepper (sliced, any color you prefer)
2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
1 ½ cups (180g) shredded provolone cheese (the heart of the sauce)
2 cups (500g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Sourcing Tips:

Beef: For the most tender, flavorful result, I recommend using sirloin or ribeye steak. If you’re in a pinch, you can use flank steak or even ground beef, but make sure to season well to get that classic cheesesteak flavor.
Provolone Cheese: While you can use any melting cheese for this recipe, provolone is key to getting that classic cheesesteak flavor. If you can’t find provolone, you can swap it out with mozzarella or even a mix of mozzarella and gouda for a slightly different flavor profile.
Tortellini: Fresh tortellini gives this dish a delicious texture, but if you’re short on time, frozen tortellini works just as well. Use any filling you like cheese or meat tortellini would both pair perfectly.

Preparation Tips:

Slice the beef as thinly as possible. If your steak is a bit thick, you can freeze it for 15-20 minutes before slicing it’ll make cutting it into thin strips much easier.
Be sure to sauté your onions and peppers until they’re soft and slightly caramelized for the best flavor. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce.
If you like a thicker sauce, let the cream simmer for a bit longer before adding the cheese. You can also adjust the consistency by adding more cream or a splash of pasta cooking water if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s get into the fun part: making this mouthwatering dish! It’s surprisingly easy to pull together, and in just a few simple steps, you’ll have a rich, creamy pasta that’s bursting with flavor.

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen. Once they float to the top, drain them and set them aside.
Sauté the Beef: While your tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and toss in the sliced onions and bell pepper. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the Creamy Provolone Sauce: Add the butter to the skillet with the veggies and let it melt. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the cream to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 3-4 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded provolone cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked tortellini and beef back into the skillet, tossing everything together gently so that the pasta and beef are coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. Serve immediately, and get ready for your taste buds to explode!

Recipe Variations and Customizations

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is already a crowd-pleaser, but there are plenty of ways to make it your own based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Alternative Ingredients:

Vegetarian Version: If you want to skip the beef, you can use grilled portobello mushrooms, seitan, or tofu in place of the meat. These alternatives still provide a meaty texture and soak up the rich provolone sauce beautifully.
Add More Veggies: While the classic cheesesteak features onions and peppers, feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
Cheese Swap: If provolone isn’t your favorite cheese, swap it out for mozzarella, gouda, or even cheddar for a different spin on this dish. For an extra cheesy twist, mix in a little Parmesan or asiago.

Flavor Boosters:

Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sautéing some sliced jalapeños with the onions and peppers.
Extra Umami: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking to give it a deeper umami flavor. You can also stir in some Dijon mustard or balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of complexity.

Presentation Tips:

For a restaurant-style touch, serve this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce in individual bowls or plates, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe a little extra provolone on top. A light drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions can also elevate the dish’s presentation.

Nutrition and Health Benefits

While Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is undeniably indulgent, it can also provide some nutritional benefits, especially when you make it with lean beef and fresh veggies.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 650-700
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 3g

Health Benefits:

Protein-Packed: The lean beef provides a healthy dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It also keeps you feeling full longer, making this a satisfying meal.
Rich in Calcium: Provolone cheese adds a good amount of calcium to the dish, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Vegetable Power: The bell peppers and onions not only contribute to the flavor but also provide important vitamins like vitamin C and antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

When it comes to serving Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, there are plenty of ways to elevate the dish and turn it into a complete, well-rounded meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, here are some ideas to make your meal feel even more special.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Garlic Bread: There’s nothing better than tearing off a chunk of warm, buttery garlic bread to dip into that creamy provolone sauce. The crispy, garlicky bread is the perfect sidekick to the rich and cheesy tortellini, and it’s an easy crowd-pleaser.
Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad balances out the richness of the pasta and adds some crunch to each bite. Try a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a bright and zesty contrast, or go for a classic Caesar salad with crispy croutons and a creamy dressing.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts would pair wonderfully with the cheesesteak tortellini. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the savory beef and creamy sauce. Simply toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Steamed Green Beans: If you’re looking for a more traditional side, steamed green beans work beautifully with this dish. Their mild flavor provides a contrast to the boldness of the tortellini and the richness of the sauce.
Coleslaw: For a bit of tangy crunch, serve a simple coleslaw alongside your dish. The crisp cabbage and zesty dressing can help balance out the creamy texture of the tortellini while adding a fun texture to the meal.

Beverage Pairings:

While wine can be an obvious choice, there are other beverages that complement the flavors of Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce beautifully, even if you’re not in the mood for wine.

Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea whether sweetened or unsweetened pairs well with the richness of the pasta. If you’re looking for something a little different, try a flavored iced tea like peach or lemon to add a fruity twist.
Lemonade: A cool glass of lemonade, whether it’s classic or strawberry-flavored, offers a tangy and refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy sauce. The citrusy notes help cleanse the palate between bites.
Sparkling Water: For something simple and refreshing, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can cut through the richness of the dish and keep the meal feeling light and refreshing. Plus, the bubbles add a fun touch to the dining experience.
Apple Cider: If you’re serving this dish in the cooler months, a chilled glass of apple cider would be a great pairing. The sweetness and tartness of the cider work well with the savory flavors of the beef and creamy sauce.

FAQ Section

As much as we love this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce, we know you might have a few questions before diving into the recipe. Here are some answers to the most common ones.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! If you’re planning ahead, you can make the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if it’s too thick.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. This dish freezes well, but I recommend freezing the sauce and the beef mixture separately from the tortellini. This way, the pasta stays in better shape when reheated. To freeze, allow everything to cool, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. The sauce and beef mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months, and the tortellini will hold up for about 2 months. To reheat, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove, while the tortellini can be reheated in boiling water.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! If provolone isn’t your favorite or if you don’t have it on hand, you can swap it with mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar. However, provolone adds that signature cheesesteak flavor, so I highly recommend it if you can get your hands on it. You could also mix and match different cheeses to create a more complex flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, swap out the beef for sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based protein. Mushrooms, in particular, mimic the meaty texture of beef and soak up the flavors of the sauce perfectly. You could also add some extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or eggplant for more depth.

What can I serve this with?

Aside from the suggested sides, feel free to get creative. Garlic bread, green salads, roasted vegetables, or even simple steamed green beans all pair beautifully with this rich and creamy pasta. If you want to go the extra mile, a light dessert like a fruit sorbet or a chocolate mousse can balance out the richness of the main dish.

Cooking Notes and Tips

Chef’s Notes:
The key to this recipe’s success lies in the balance of flavors. The provolone sauce is creamy but not too heavy, and the beef is tender with just the right amount of seasoning. Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions and peppers, as this brings out their natural sweetness, which plays off the sharpness of the provolone beautifully. A quick tip for getting that perfect creamy consistency is to let the sauce simmer gently so the cheese melts evenly without curdling.

Pro Tips:

Slicing the beef thinly: To make sure your beef is tender and cooks quickly, slice it against the grain as thinly as possible. This ensures that it remains juicy and doesn’t become tough.
Pasta cooking tip: If you’re using frozen tortellini, be sure to stir it occasionally while boiling to prevent it from sticking together. Don’t forget to salt the water this helps bring out the flavor of the pasta.

Storage Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce to its creamy texture. If you freeze this dish, make sure to let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent meal that’s packed with flavor, Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is the perfect dish to try. With its creamy provolone sauce, tender beef, and deliciously cheesy tortellini, this recipe is the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at your next gathering.

The best part? It’s quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and filled with all the flavors of a classic cheesesteak but in pasta form. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. So, why not give it a try?

And don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on the site for more ideas. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, hearty soups, or something sweet, there’s a recipe waiting for you!

Happy cooking, and enjoy!